Gabe Newell to be honoured at ESA charity event

Valve founder Gabe Newell will be named Champion Honouree at the Entertainment Software Association's annual Nite to Unite.

The black tie charity affair, now in its 15th year, picks one industry figure each year to be inducted into its list of champions. Past honourees include George Lucas and Mike Morhaime.

ESA president Mike Gallagher described Newell as a "visionary innovator" whose success has "broadened the industry" for both gamers and creators.

"He has brought that same tenacity to working with schools and students, expanding access to digital learning while demonstrating that a commitment to positive social impact and leadership in business go hand-in-hand," Gallagher added.

Nite to Unite will take place on October 18 in San Francisco. All proceeds from the dinner - which costs an eye-opening $750 per person - go towards Entertainment Software Association Foundation activities including scholarships and special events like the recent Smithsonian exhibit, The Art of Video Games.